This much I know...


Here, Paul Marriott, Depaul UK’s Chief Executive talks about services and policies aimed at young people in these uncertain times.


There are going to be cuts in public expenditure. There will be powerful voices arguing for what should and should not be cut. I just hope that, in all the clamour for cuts, we all listen to the voices of those who are most vulnerable, who have least power and who are most likely to be directly affected.


It’s going to be much harder for homeless young people to survive and thrive. Everyone agrees that we have too many young people who are not in education, employment or training. We know that the jobs situation is going to be tight. With so many unemployed graduates, the outlook for those who are furthest from the labour market is even more bleak. But politicians aren’t agreed on how best to match the extremely vulnerable and disadvantaged young people we serve to real jobs. Depaul UK has 21 years of experience of creating real opportunities and change for young people. When the Government is deciding how best to tackle youth unemployment, I really hope they listen to us.


page 7 Safe&Sound


In times of recession, the number of homeless young people increases. I am sure it will be the same this time round.


Youth homelessness did not feature as an issue in the campaigning in the run up to the general election. It’s almost as if MPs and commentators didn’t know there are 75,000 young people becoming homeless every year in our country. Perhaps out of sight is out of mind?


Nightstop is a fantastic model. With more volunteers than ever offering a place in their own homes to young people who become homeless, we have a great example of how ordinary people can make a profound difference.


We have achieved a lot over the last 21 years. With the support of successive governments and the charitable support of so many people, we’ve built a safety net that can catch young people when they become homeless and help them stand on


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